Why students and scientists spend summer on ice

Every year, dozens of 20-somethings forego a summer break to live on the Juneau ice field. They slog heavy packs and ski to camps — miles away from the closest cell phone signal or Wi-Fi hotspot. The Juneau Icefield Research Program has been around for 70 years. First, exploring the icy expanse. And later, tracking the rate Southeast glaciers are shrinking.
If you squint, you might think you’re in the desert. Flat, white terrain stretches out as far as the eye can see and rocky peaks